Overcoming OBSTACLES

Pranayama and Yoga are two major practices that can influence the way we view the world and breath through the world. 

We hiked to the top of a mountain. Mt. McLoughlin. At 9,499 ft, this inactive steep-sided lava cone is one of the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Volcanic Arc. The highest peak between Mt. Shasta and South Sister, the trail to summit is only about 4.5 miles one way, mostly uphill, sometimes confusing to follow, seemingly eons long and at moments extremely steep and rocky. I was struggling. To get to the summit, one must follow the ridge up 1,250 elevation gain while finding appropriate footing and physical strength among eroded rock and sand. While I got in touch with my inner childhood self, with bouts of pouting, spaghetti legs, and extreme physical fatigue, we made it. Without the support of my companion, I might only have seen the first 15 minutes of the trail.

As we face challenges in life, the physical experiences, limitations, or excellence is only a byproduct of our mentality. The first step is meditation and moment-to-moment awareness.   

Feels so good to be alive.